ASCE 7-05

ASCE 7-05 Code Information

The ASCE 7 Standard Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures is the document the International Building Code (IBC) relies on for its structural and nonstructural requirements. ASCE 7-05, was the standard referenced in the 2006 and 2009 IBC’s, but has now been substituted by ASCE 7-10 in the 2012 IBC. Per the code updates, there are some changes in the nonstructural requirements for commercial building that may affect your project.

The differences below are directly from ASCE 7 and pertain to structures in Seismic Design Categories C, D, E and F. They do not account for State or Local code amendments (if any).

The single most significant change is the addition of an Omega over-strength factor requirement for anchorages to concrete. The over-strength factor results in a significant reduction in anchorage allowable design capacity to the extent that allowable anchor load may govern maximum allowable brace spacing. Simply put, this reduced anchorage capacity greatly increases the likelihood that anchorage capacity may govern the maximum allowable brace spacing. Reductions in brace spacing vs. that under ASCE 7-05 are likely particularly in areas with high horizontal ground accelerations.